Make Like Indiana Jones

Make Like Indiana Jones

If a day or two spent rafting, canyoning, and bridge walking (with a night at the onsen) leaves you wanting more, grab your bullwhip and fedora and head farther into the valley. Mt. Tsurugi, the "Fufu" Bashi (so-called "husband and wife" vine bridges), a handful of onsen-hotels and craft workshops await you. Driving there is not complicated per se—follow signs toward Higashi-Iya and Tsurugi-san—but the narrow mountain roads are challenging, and you'll want someone to mark the way for you on a map. The taiken, literally experiences, offered by local artisans are unique activities. We recommend making delicious buckwheat noodles, soba, especially since this region is famous for it. Hiring a local sherpa to climb Tsurugi-san with you is a good choice, too. For a full listing of these taiken, check http://iya.jp/takumi/e.htm. Translation assistance is offered by Chiiori House, a sustainable living project run by author Alex Kerr, itself a phenomenal location. But remember, the trouble with hidden paradises is that they're hidden. A car, some basic Japanese ability and some gusto will help you get the most out of being here. www.chiiori.org